Design International

Design International was founded in 1965 in Toronto, Canada and quickly built a reputation for truly innovative design, particularly in retail architecture. Indeed, the practice pioneered many design features that have since become industry benchmarks. These include the use of glazed roofs to create covered “streets” that are flooded with daylight (Bugis Junction, Singapore) and creating the first mall that integrated retail and entertainment in one centre (Coco Walk, Florida). Driven by a philosophy that seeks to shape local stories to provide unique experiences for every visitor, the practice continues to push the boundaries of retail architecture. In recent years, it has created many award-winning designs, including Morocco Mall in Casablanca, which challenged convention by placing the retail anchors at the centre of the mall; and Il Centro in Arese, Italy, with its reimagining of the market square to attract and engage visitors. Building from its strong base in retail, the practice has developed its expertise over many years and now has projects encompassing a range of sectors, including mixed use developments, residential, hotels and hospitality as well as transport hubs. Current commissions include key projects in Europe, India and the Middle East, as well as innovative new mixed-use developments in China. Now headquartered in London, Design International boasts offices in Milan and Shanghai and opened a new office in Dubai’s Design District (d3) in early 2018. The practice’s development continues apace and in May last year, the Milan office relocated to new premises in the Bicocca district of the city. Here, on the site of former Breda and Pirelli works, the DI Campus will be developed, promoting the exchange of ideas and know-how with the next generation of designers.